October 9-15, 2003

the bell curve

City Paper's weekly gauge of Philly's Quality of Life

Court case begins concerning why SEPTA didn't go with the lowest bidder for its El reconstruction project. It only looks like they did.
Minus 1

Thirteen tons of pigeon droppings are removed from edifice of City Hall. Or does it just feel that way because the Eagles finally won a home game?
Plus 4

City receives $88 million in federal aid to help homeless. In change.
Plus 5

City lifts skateboarding ban at Love Park. A relieved but bruised Ed Bacon is led back to his home.
Plus 9

Both Street and Katz visit black churches on campaign trail. Katz tells congregation that he always thought Street was overrated and the media was desirous for a black mayor to be successful.
Plus 1

Man who kept tiger and alligator in his Harlem apartment comes to Philly hospital after he was mauled. Doctors refuse to treat him when they discover he can't even perform any fabulously lavish magic tricks.
Minus 1

Liberty Bell moves 100 yards to the former site of George Washington's slave quarters. With a straight face.
Minus 6

Melanie Hopkins, former chief of staff and fiancee to Thacher Longstreth, is awarded the late councilman's pension and some of his ashes. Hopkins plans on putting the ashes on her mantle next to some gold she dug.
Minus 1

Cops find listening devices in Street's office. Melanie Hopkins says they were Thacher's hearing aids and she wants one. Minus 3

Total pluses: 19

Total minuses: 12

Score for the week: 7

Last week's score: -14

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